Justin Murray

1. What is your role and what does a typical day look like for you?  

As an Audit and Quality Specialist, I conduct investigations into allegations of social assistance fraud, represent the department at the Social Benefits Tribunal, validate overpayments, and carry a small caseload of social assistance recipients. Each day varies depending on priorities, whether that means supporting a client in need, completing a detailed investigation, or preparing a comprehensive submission in response to a Social Benefits Tribunal appeal.

2. How did you find your way into municipal work?  

Following graduation from post-secondary education, an unexpected opportunity arose to work in the emergency shelter system. Although I had originally aspired to work in the justice system, my focus shifted as I discovered a strong drive to support those experiencing homelessness, addictions, physical and mental health challenges, and poverty.

3. What part of your work has the biggest impact on your community?  

As Audit and Quality staff, my role has a significant impact on the financial accountability of social assistance programs. Public trust in social programs is closely tied to program integrity. By strengthening processes, identifying gaps, and promoting accountability, I help ensure that services delivered to our community are both compassionate and reliable.

4. What is one moment, project, or accomplishment you’re proud of?  

One moment that stands out was helping ensure individuals experiencing homelessness were quickly connected to emergency accommodations designed to limit COVID 19 transmission. It was a chaotic time that required close coordination with frontline homelessness supports, precise documentation, and a strong commitment to financial integrity, all while acting with urgency and compassion.

5. What’s something people might be surprised to learn about your job? 

There is a common misconception that a large portion of clients are attempting to exploit the system. In reality, the vast majority of people accessing Ontario Works are doing so because they genuinely need help, often during some of the most difficult periods of their lives. Most of the issues identified during quality reviews are not related to intentional wrongdoing. They are typically the result of complex circumstances, policy misunderstandings, documentation challenges, or the fast-paced nature of frontline work.

6. What do you enjoy most about serving your municipality?

What I enjoy most is contributing to meaningful, community focused work while being part of a high performing team that continually strives to improve service delivery. Working in the public sector means that every effort, whether refining a process, removing a barrier, or making a thoughtful decision, has a direct and positive impact on the lives of people in our community.

7. What are you looking forward to in the year ahead?  

Having recently entered a new position, I look forward to a year of learning and innovation. I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute ideas, test solutions, and help shape positive change. I enjoy finding ways to strengthen our work while ensuring clients continue to receive the support they need in the most effective way possible.

8. Anything else you’d like people to know about your role, your team, or your municipality? 

The work we do is shaped by the remarkable resiliency of the people who live in Brantford and Brant County. Our community, like many others, has transitioned from a primarily manufacturing economy, through periods of recession, to a more diversified modern economy. Despite challenges, clients, staff, and residents consistently demonstrate an incredible ability to adapt, rebuild, and support one another.